- Overview
- Surgeon
- Q&A
About the treatment
Lip Flip
A lip flip is a non-surgical procedure that can be used to enhance the appearance of the lips. It involves injecting a small amount of botulinum toxin (Botox) into the muscles around the lips, which relaxes the muscles and causes the lips to flip outwards.
Benefits of a Lip Flip
- Enhances the appearance of the lips
- Creates a more youthful look
- Can be used to correct a gummy smile
- Is a non-surgical procedure
- Has minimal downtime
Procedure
The lip flip procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes. It is performed by a qualified medical professional, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. The procedure involves the following steps:
- The lips are cleaned and disinfected.
- A small amount of botulinum toxin is injected into the muscles around the lips.
- The lips are massaged to help distribute the toxin.
Results
The results of a lip flip procedure can be seen within a few days. The lips will appear fuller and more defined. The results typically last for 3-6 months.
Risks and Side Effects
A lip flip procedure is generally safe and has minimal side effects. However, there are some risks and side effects associated with the procedure, including:
- Bruising or swelling
- Pain or discomfort
- Allergic reaction to the botulinum toxin
- Asymmetry of the lips
Conclusion
A lip flip procedure can be a safe and effective way to enhance the appearance of the lips. It is a non-surgical procedure with minimal downtime and can provide results that last for several months. However, it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure before making a decision.
Candidate
A lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that can temporarily enhance the fullness and definition of the lips using hyaluronic acid fillers. It involves injecting a small amount of filler into the vermilion border (the edge of the lips) to create a subtle pout and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth.
The procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes and can last for up to 6 months, depending on the individual's metabolism and the amount of filler used. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced injector to discuss your desired results and ensure a safe and effective outcome.
General Health and Wellness Practices
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Protect your lips from the sun by applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can dehydrate the lips and contribute to premature aging.
- Use a gentle lip balm or moisturizer to keep your lips hydrated and protected.
- Consider a lip mask or serum to nourish and rejuvenate your lips overnight.
Side & After Effects
- Bruising and swelling: Lip flips are a minimally invasive procedure, but some bruising and swelling is normal. This usually resolves within a few days.
- Infection: Lip flips are performed under sterile conditions, but there is always a small risk of infection. This risk can be minimized by following the doctor's instructions for aftercare.
- Asymmetry: In some cases, lip flips can result in asymmetry, meaning that the lips are not perfectly even. This can usually be corrected with additional treatments.
- Lumps and bumps: Lip flips can sometimes cause lumps and bumps to form on the lips. These usually resolve on their own within a few weeks.
- Scarring: Lip flips can rarely cause scarring. This risk is minimized by choosing a qualified doctor and following the doctor's instructions for aftercare.
Conclusion
Lip flips are a safe and effective way to enhance the appearance of the lips. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and after effects before undergoing the procedure. By choosing a qualified doctor and following the doctor's instructions for aftercare, you can minimize the risks and achieve the best possible results.Things to Know
Procedure Time
10 Minutes
Overnight Stay
No
Recovery Time
1-2 days
Surgeon

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Karen Horton is Internationally Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for women. Since 2006, Dr. Horton’s boutique Pacific Heights San Francisco Plastic Surgery private practice focuses on providing personalized care with meticulous attention to detail in a warm, welcoming and unintimidating environment. Regardless of whether surgery is cosmetic or reconstructive, Dr. Horton’s practice is centered on providing BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL looking and long-lasting results. “Dr. Karen” is also a Plastic Surgery patient herself! Learn all about her own Mommy Makeover experience in her blog series.
Education & Training
1996 - 2000 University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine Doctor of Medicine, First Class Honours
2000 - 2005 University of Manitoba - Canada Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surger
2005 - 2006 Buncke Clinic, California Pacific Medical Center Senior Clinical Fellowship in Hand and Microsurgery
Awards & Academic Achievements
ASPS Ambassador Appointment 2005-Present
America's Top Plastic Surgeon Award 2004-Present
America's Top Physicians Award 2005-Present
America's Top Surgeon Award 2008-Present
Board Certification(s)
American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
Location
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2100 Webster St unit 520, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
Questions and Answers
Dr. Horton does not have any Q&A at this time.
Schedule a consultation
Lip Flip

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Natural Results
Nonsurgical
Safe & Reliable
Dr. Karen Horton is Internationally Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by both t...
Lip Flip by Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS.
About the Procedure
Introduction
Introduction
Lip Flip Procedure Overview Lip Flip Procedure Overview
A lip flip is a non-surgical procedure that can be used to enhance the appearance of the lips. It involves injecting a small amount of botulinum toxin (Botox) into the muscles around the lips, which relaxes the muscles and causes the lips to flip outwards.
Benefits of a Lip Flip
- Enhances the appearance of the lips
- Creates a more youthful look
- Can be used to correct a gummy smile
- Is a non-surgical procedure
- Has minimal downtime
Procedure
The lip flip procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes. It is performed by a qualified medical professional, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. The procedure involves the following steps:
- The lips are cleaned and disinfected.
- A small amount of botulinum toxin is injected into the muscles around the lips.
- The lips are massaged to help distribute the toxin.
Results
The results of a lip flip procedure can be seen within a few days. The lips will appear fuller and more defined. The results typically last for 3-6 months.
Risks and Side Effects
A lip flip procedure is generally safe and has minimal side effects. However, there are some risks and side effects associated with the procedure, including:
- Bruising or swelling
- Pain or discomfort
- Allergic reaction to the botulinum toxin
- Asymmetry of the lips
Conclusion
A lip flip procedure can be a safe and effective way to enhance the appearance of the lips. It is a non-surgical procedure with minimal downtime and can provide results that last for several months. However, it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure before making a decision.
Duration
10 Minutes
Overnight Stay
No
Recovery Time
1 Day
Effective Period
2-3 months
A lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that can temporarily enhance the fullness and definition of the lips using hyaluronic acid fillers. It involves injecting a small amount of filler into the vermilion border (the edge of the lips) to create a subtle pout and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth.
The procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes and can last for up to 6 months, depending on the individual's metabolism and the amount of filler used. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced injector to discuss your desired results and ensure a safe and effective outcome.
General Health and Wellness Practices
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Protect your lips from the sun by applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can dehydrate the lips and contribute to premature aging.
- Use a gentle lip balm or moisturizer to keep your lips hydrated and protected.
- Consider a lip mask or serum to nourish and rejuvenate your lips overnight.
- Quick and easy procedure: Lip flips are typically performed in under 30 minutes, making them a convenient and time-saving option.
- Minimal downtime: There is minimal downtime associated with lip flips, allowing you to resume your normal activities almost immediately.
- Natural-looking results: Lip flips create a subtle pout without looking overdone, giving a more natural-looking enhancement to your lips.
- Non-surgical: Lip flips are non-surgical, meaning they do not involve any cutting or incisions, making them a less invasive option compared to surgical lip augmentation.
- Reversible: Lip flips are reversible, meaning the effects will gradually wear off over time, typically within 2-4 months. This allows you to experiment with a fuller pout without committing to permanent changes.
Risks of a Lip Flip
- Swelling and bruising: This is a common side effect that usually resolves within a few days.
- Pain: The procedure can cause mild to moderate pain, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur at the injection site, but this should stop quickly.
- Asymmetry: The lips may appear uneven or asymmetrical after the procedure, but this usually corrects itself within a few weeks.
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the injection site, which can be treated with antibiotics.
- Allergic reaction: Allergic reactions to the neuromodulator used (e.g., Botox, Dysport) are rare but possible.
- Overcorrection: The injector may inject too much neuromodulator, which can lead to an unnatural appearance and difficulty moving the lips.
- Migration of the neuromodulator: The neuromodulator may spread to other areas of the face, such as the cheeks or chin, causing unwanted effects.
- Nerve damage: In very rare cases, the injection may damage a nerve, causing numbness or weakness in the lips.
Safety of a Lip Flip
- FDA-approved: The neuromodulators used for lip flips are FDA-approved for use in the face.
- Temporary results: The effects of a lip flip last for 2-4 months, so any side effects or complications are temporary as well.
- Minimal downtime: There is no downtime associated with the procedure, and patients can resume their normal activities immediately.
- Skillful injector: When performed by a skilled and experienced injector, the risks of a lip flip are minimized.
It's important to note that the risks and safety of a lip flip can vary depending on the individual patient and the injector's experience and technique. It's always advisable to consult a qualified medical professional for a thorough evaluation and to discuss any concerns or potential risks.
Preparation for a Lip Flip
Before the Procedure:
- Consult with a qualified injector: Choose a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who specializes in lip injections.
- Discuss your goals: Clearly express your desired outcome, including the shape, volume, and projection you want.
- Review your medical history: Inform the injector about any allergies, current medications, and previous cosmetic procedures.
- Discontinue certain medications: Ask your doctor about any medications or supplements that may need to be stopped before the procedure, such as blood thinners.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can interfere with the procedure and increase the risk of bruising.
- Arrive with clean, makeup-free lips: Remove any lipstick or lip balm before the appointment.
- Bring a stress ball or fidget toy: This can help alleviate any anxiety you may feel during the procedure.
During the Procedure:
- Numbing cream: A topical anesthetic cream may be applied to the lips to minimize discomfort.
- Injections: The injector will use a fine needle to inject a small amount of hyaluronic acid filler into the orbicularis oris muscle, which surrounds the lips.
- Massaging: The injector will gently massage the lips to evenly distribute the filler.
- Ice: Ice packs may be applied after the injections to reduce swelling and discomfort.
After the Procedure:
- Immediately after: Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are common immediately after the procedure. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate these symptoms.
- Recovery period: It typically takes 2-4 weeks for the swelling to subside fully. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting during this time.
- Avoid heat: Do not expose your lips to excessive heat, such as hot showers or sun exposure, which can worsen swelling.
- Use sunscreen: Protect your lips with sunscreen to prevent sun damage and discoloration.
- Consultation: Follow up with your injector as directed for any necessary touch-ups or adjustments.
Recovery Timeline for Lip Flip Treatment:
Day 1-3:
- Mild swelling and bruising around the treated area.
- Slight discomfort or numbness in the lips.
- Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area.
Day 4-7:
- Swelling and bruising gradually subside.
- Lips may feel slightly tighter or dryer.
- Use lip balm to keep lips hydrated.
Week 1-2:
- Most of the swelling and bruising should have disappeared.
- Lips may feel more relaxed and lifted.
- Avoid strenuous activities that could cause excessive swelling.
Month 1-3:
- Final results of the treatment become more noticeable.
- Lips will continue to feel more defined and rejuvenated.
- The effects of the treatment typically last for 2-3 months.
Recovery Tips:
- Apply ice packs: Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the treated area for 20-minute intervals several times a day.
- Elevate your head: Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Avoid certain foods: Abstain from hot, spicy, or acidic foods that can irritate the treated area.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can increase swelling and slow down healing.
- Use antibacterial soap: Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the treated area.
- Keep the lips moisturized: Apply lip balm or petroleum jelly several times a day.
- Massage gently: After the swelling has subsided, gently massage the treated area to improve circulation and enhance results.
Reversal:
A lip flip can be reversed if desired. The injector will use an enzyme called hyaluronidase to dissolve the hyaluronic acid filler used in the treatment. The reversal process is quick and typically takes only a few minutes.
Things to know before start
Preparation for a Lip Flip
Before the Procedure:
- Consult with a qualified injector: Choose a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who specializes in lip injections.
- Discuss your goals: Clearly express your desired outcome, including the shape, volume, and projection you want.
- Review your medical history: Inform the injector about any allergies, current medications, and previous cosmetic procedures.
- Discontinue certain medications: Ask your doctor about any medications or supplements that may need to be stopped before the procedure, such as blood thinners.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can interfere with the procedure and increase the risk of bruising.
- Arrive with clean, makeup-free lips: Remove any lipstick or lip balm before the appointment.
- Bring a stress ball or fidget toy: This can help alleviate any anxiety you may feel during the procedure.
During the Procedure:
- Numbing cream: A topical anesthetic cream may be applied to the lips to minimize discomfort.
- Injections: The injector will use a fine needle to inject a small amount of hyaluronic acid filler into the orbicularis oris muscle, which surrounds the lips.
- Massaging: The injector will gently massage the lips to evenly distribute the filler.
- Ice: Ice packs may be applied after the injections to reduce swelling and discomfort.
After the Procedure:
- Immediately after: Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are common immediately after the procedure. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate these symptoms.
- Recovery period: It typically takes 2-4 weeks for the swelling to subside fully. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting during this time.
- Avoid heat: Do not expose your lips to excessive heat, such as hot showers or sun exposure, which can worsen swelling.
- Use sunscreen: Protect your lips with sunscreen to prevent sun damage and discoloration.
- Consultation: Follow up with your injector as directed for any necessary touch-ups or adjustments.
Recovery Timeline for Lip Flip Treatment:
Day 1-3:
- Mild swelling and bruising around the treated area.
- Slight discomfort or numbness in the lips.
- Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area.
Day 4-7:
- Swelling and bruising gradually subside.
- Lips may feel slightly tighter or dryer.
- Use lip balm to keep lips hydrated.
Week 1-2:
- Most of the swelling and bruising should have disappeared.
- Lips may feel more relaxed and lifted.
- Avoid strenuous activities that could cause excessive swelling.
Month 1-3:
- Final results of the treatment become more noticeable.
- Lips will continue to feel more defined and rejuvenated.
- The effects of the treatment typically last for 2-3 months.
Recovery Tips:
- Apply ice packs: Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the treated area for 20-minute intervals several times a day.
- Elevate your head: Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Avoid certain foods: Abstain from hot, spicy, or acidic foods that can irritate the treated area.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can increase swelling and slow down healing.
- Use antibacterial soap: Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the treated area.
- Keep the lips moisturized: Apply lip balm or petroleum jelly several times a day.
- Massage gently: After the swelling has subsided, gently massage the treated area to improve circulation and enhance results.
Reversal:
A lip flip can be reversed if desired. The injector will use an enzyme called hyaluronidase to dissolve the hyaluronic acid filler used in the treatment. The reversal process is quick and typically takes only a few minutes.
Surgeon

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Owner at San Francisco Plastic Surgery
San Francisco County, California
50 views today
Speaks: English, French
Dr. Karen Horton is Internationally Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for women. Since 2006, Dr. Horton’s boutique Pacific Heights San Francisco Plastic Surgery private practice focuses on providing personalized care with meticulous attention to detail in a warm, welcoming and unintimidating environment. Regardless of whether surgery is cosmetic or reconstructive, Dr. Horton’s practice is centered on providing BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL looking and long-lasting results. “Dr. Karen” is also a Plastic Surgery patient herself! Learn all about her own Mommy Makeover experience in her blog series.
Education & Training
- 1996 - 2000 University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine Doctor of Medicine, First Class Honours
- 2000 - 2005 University of Manitoba - Canada Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surger
- 2005 - 2006 Buncke Clinic, California Pacific Medical Center Senior Clinical Fellowship in Hand and Microsurgery
Awards & Academic Achievements
- ASPS Ambassador Appointment 2005-Present
- America's Top Plastic Surgeon Award 2004-Present
- America's Top Physicians Award 2005-Present
- America's Top Surgeon Award 2008-Present
Board Certification(s)
- American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
2100 Webster St unit 520, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
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Surgeon

Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Owner at San Francisco Plastic Surgery
San Francisco County, California
50 views today
Dr. Karen Horton is Internationally Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for women. Since 2006, Dr. Horton’s boutique Pacific Heights San Francisco Plastic Surgery private practice focuses on providing personalized care with meticulous attention to detail in a warm, welcoming and unintimidating environment. Regardless of whether surgery is cosmetic or reconstructive, Dr. Horton’s practice is centered on providing BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL looking and long-lasting results. “Dr. Karen” is also a Plastic Surgery patient herself! Learn all about her own Mommy Makeover experience in her blog series.
Education & Training
- 1996 - 2000 University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine Doctor of Medicine, First Class Honours
- 2000 - 2005 University of Manitoba - Canada Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surger
- 2005 - 2006 Buncke Clinic, California Pacific Medical Center Senior Clinical Fellowship in Hand and Microsurgery
Awards & Academic Achievements
- ASPS Ambassador Appointment 2005-Present
- America's Top Plastic Surgeon Award 2004-Present
- America's Top Physicians Award 2005-Present
- America's Top Surgeon Award 2008-Present
Board Certification(s)
- American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
2100 Webster St unit 520, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
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Questions and Answers
Q&A
Dr. Karen M. Horton does not have any Q&A at this time.
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